The Best Coastal Destinations in Europe for Romantic Getaways
Coastal destinations are the essence of romantic getaways. Complete with soft white sands, endless blue skies and crystal-clear waters, they provide the perfect base for couples to unwind, relax and reconnect.
Europe boasts some of the most beautiful coastal spots in the world. From the glittering azure waters of the Amalfi Coast to the charming villages dotted along the French Riviera or the golden sands of the Portuguese Algarve, there are endless opportunities for romance and relaxation.
In this article, we’ll explore five of the very best coastal destinations in Europe, promising a romantic getaway filled with breathtaking views, alluring attractions and plenty of unforgettable experiences.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is a sunny stretch of coastline that runs across the south of Italy in the Campania region. Famous for its dramatic cliffs, colourful villages and delightful Mediterranean climate, it’s a popular destination for couples seeking the ultimate Italian escape.
There are many beautiful villages to choose from along the Amalfi Coast, but Positano takes the crown when it comes to romantic waterfront settings. Positano is famous for its vibrant hillside apartments, chic boutiques and exceptionally beautiful beaches. Fornillo Beach is a quiet hideaway that’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and from here, couples can rent a boat to explore the secluded coves around the island of Capri.
Ravello is another idyllic village offering a peaceful retreat, complete with lush gardens and sweeping Mediterranean views. The sunsets here are second to none, with hilltop restaurants providing the ideal location to soak in the golden rays and savour delicious local wines and cuisine. For couples seeking a secluded and intimate experience, Ravello should be your top choice.
Côte d’Azur, France
When we think of the French Riviera, we picture a blend of glamour, culture and stunning golden beaches. This combination of beauty and charm makes the Côte d’Azur one of the premier destinations for a romantic escape.
This ribbon of coastline stretches along the southeastern coast of France, from Saint-Tropez to Menton near the Italian border. It is especially popular for private yacht cruises, with luxurious destinations like Monaco, situated between Nice and the medieval village of Èze.
Nice is the capital of the French Riviera and features a charming old town close to the beachfront where couples can take a leisurely afternoon stroll. Enjoy the narrow, cobbled pathways dotted with authentic bakeries and cafes. Make your way along the Promenade des Anglais, lined with swaying palms, before spending the afternoon sunbathing on the pebbly shore.
The village of Èze is a historical gem on the French Riviera, perched atop the hillside offering panoramic coastal views. Complete with cobblestone alleys, a botanical garden and historical squares, it’s the ideal place for couples to spend an intimate afternoon soaking in culture, sunshine and one another’s company.
Santorini, Greece
Whilst Santorini is one of the smaller islands in the Greek Cyclades, it’s also one of the most beautiful. This quintessential romantic island attracts couples seeking a luxurious experience, with whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches and breathtaking views of the island’s volcanic caldera.
The village of Oia is a must-see for couples wanting to experience the very best sunsets in Santorini. Situated atop the hills, the village overlooks the vast Aegean Sea and is dotted with intimate restaurants and bars where couples can enjoy the golden evening views whilst savouring delicious Greek cuisine.
Santorini is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the Cyclades. These properties offer premier amenities, like spa facilities, private pools and stylish interiors, making them the perfect base for an indulgent stay.
Couples can discover fantastic tours of Greece to experience the country’s most breathtaking locations. With tours covering the most romantic spots, including Santorini Mykonos and Athens, you can enjoy a stress-free journey with an itinerary tailored to your tastes and preferences.
Paphos, Cyprus
Paphos, a historic city on the southwest coast of Cyprus, is a beautiful destination tied to the Greek Goddess of Love, Aphrodite. With its romantic mythological roots and breathtaking natural beauty, Paphos is the perfect place for an intimate couples retreat.
Paphos Old Town exudes traditional Cypriot charm with modern artistic touches. Unlike more touristy areas of Cyprus, this town offers an authentic and relaxed atmosphere. Take a stroll through Kennedy Square to find handmade souvenirs like pottery, jewellery and local olive oil, or relax in one of the many tavernas where you can savour small meze plates and delicious Cypriot wine.
There are many stunning beaches to explore in Paphos, including Coral Bay. This long stretch of golden sand and clear waters is perfect for couples who love sunbathing, and with its proximity to cosy tavernas by the waterfront, it’s also a great place for sunset dining. Be sure to visit Aphrodite’s Rock just outside of Paphos to experience the ultimate golden hour. Here, you can capture stunning photos of you and your partner at the very spot where the goddess of love was born!
For couples travelling on a budget, there are many cheap holidays to Cyprus, which include fantastic accommodation in great locations at an affordable price. Whether it’s Paphos, Ayia Napa or Limassol, you can find a range of hotels and resorts for a peaceful escape.
Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve is a breathtaking coastal region in the south of Portugal, popular for its beautiful beaches, which offer both relaxation and fun. Whether you’re seeking a serene getaway surrounded by dramatic landscapes or a lively seafront bar scene, you can find it all along the Algarve.
Lagos is a laid-back city in Portugal renowned for its unique rock formations and bright blue waters. From wine tasting to dolphin watching and sunset catamaran tours, there are endless opportunities for romance in Lagos. Praia do Camilo is a postcard-perfect beach where you can set sail to see the sun dip below the horizon on a private boat tour.
Albuferia offers a more vibrant, lively atmosphere, perfect for couples who want a blend of adventure and relaxation. The Bengali Cave is a famous coastal spot close to Albuferia, and visitors can take a boat ride to see this magnificent rock formation and swim in the lagoon-like waters. Afterwards, retire to the charming Old Town, where you can enjoy classical Fado music and cocktails in a chic rooftop bar.
Summary
Romantic getaways to Europe are truly unbeatable, not only for their stunning coastal landscapes but also for their delicious cuisine and enriching cultural experiences. Whether you choose Cyprus, Greece, Italy, France or Portugal, you won’t be short of romantic ventures for you and your loved one. Be sure to visit some of the destinations mentioned in this article for an unforgettable romantic escape to Europe’s most desirable coastal locations.
